If you have a cat, you know how much your pet adores its scratching mat. These simple yet essential pet items also provide an outlet for the natural scratching urge of your cat, promote healthy claws, and protect your furniture from the destruction of their razor-sharp claws. One question that has probably crossed your mind is, how often should you change scratching mats for a cat? Here is a quick guide on what to look for before you make a decision.
Why Do Cats Need Scratching Mats?
Here are a few reasons why your cat needs a mat to scratch on.
Importance of Scratching on a Mat
Cats have scratching as a natural habit. They do it for many reasons, like to stretch, relieve stress, mark their territory and, of course, for clawing. The urge to scratch surfaces is instinct, and this behaviour cannot be eliminated. However, it can be effectively managed and redirected with the appropriate manicuring materials, such as mats.
Benefits of Using Mats
A scratching mat is an easy way to allow your cat to engage in scratching behaviour. It’s a safe area for active scratching and promotes healthy claws. Regular scratching exercises keep a cat’s claws clean and fit. These mats also work as a workout for your cat as they stretch and work out their muscles.
Protect Your Furniture
When considering replacement scratching mats for my cat, get the best ones only. A high-quality mat will protect your upholstery, and your cat will be satisfied with the scratching results. Where there is no mat or of poor quality, cats tend to scratch on anything within reach.
How Often Should You Replace Scratching Mats?
Here’s how often you must replace your scratching mat for the cat.
Frequency of Replacement
There is no definite answer on how frequently you need to get a new scratching mat for your cat. It’s all about the kind of material, the frequency of usage and the state of the mat itself.
However, an excellent way to tell when to toss out a scratching mat is when the mat becomes so worn out that it is no longer usable. Such mats become a health hazard if your cat no longer seems interested in playing with them. For most cats, this may translate to getting a new mat every 3-6 months, but aggressive scratchers may require a new one every 2-3 months.
Signs of Excessive Wear
Shaggy mats with torn frames or fibre clusters are uncomfortable for cats. If the mat shows signs of significant damage or disintegration, it’s time to replace it. A mat with excessive wear and tear will keep your cat away from it, and they might end up scratching your furniture.
Signs Its Time to Replace Your Cat’s Scratching Mat
Here are the crucial signs to understand when you need to replace your scratching mat.
Lifespan of Scratching Mats
Many factors determine how long a scratching mat lasts. These factors include construction, frequency, and intensity when used by the cat. Usually, a few of these mats for scratching will only last for a few months, while others could even survive for over one year. Constant checks on the condition of the scratching mat are necessary to ensure its safety and effectiveness.
Visible Wear and Tear
Visible wear and tear is one of the obvious degrees to which one can judge a cat’s scratching mat for replacement. Mats made from sisal and cardboard, or carpet elastic, get nibbled over time, leaving patching and markings on it.
Loss of Interest from Your Cat
Another reason your cat needs a new mat to scratch is when it appears the cat is tired of using the current one. Cats tend to be very territorial, yet they can also get tired of clingy objects that have been old for too long. Perhaps a new mat with a different texture and scent would make them happy and encourage more playful scratching.
Odours and Hygiene Issues
Eventually, scratching pads can become unappealing to your pet as they collect smells from their claws and fur. Moreover, the mat can trap dust, fur, and other debris that can pose cleanliness issues. When the scratching mat starts to produce offensive odours or gets contaminated, it should be disposed of to avoid sanitation problems in the house and your cat’s surroundings.
Choosing the Right Size and Shape
Scratching mats are available in various shapes and sizes, including flat mats that lay on the ground or angled or vertical position designs. It’s ideal to select a mat that will correspond with your cat’s scratching habits and consider the available space in your house.
Flat Mats
These are ideal for cats who love to scratch only in a horizontal direction. They are quite easy to fit within a room and can even be tucked under furniture or placed along walking paths.
Angled Mats
This kind of mats incorporate a slanting feature, allowing the cats to scratch at an angle. Due to the slanted surface, the cats are encouraged to stretch and scratch, toning their muscles and flexibility.
Vertical Scratching
When looking for scratching mats for my cat, you can also get a vertical one. Every feline enjoys reaching up and scratching; hence, these cat scratchers allow them to stretch and scratch easily. These are designed as scratching posts or wall-mounted mats.
Conclusion
Scratching mats form an integral part of your cat’s daily activities as they allow them to scratch, stretch and interact. By ensuring that the condition of your cat’s scratching pad is checked on a constant basis and replacing it when needed, you will make sure that your feline baby remains happy, healthy, and active. In addition, remember to pick a mat your cat likes. Replace it whenever worn out so your cat does not damage household items with claws.
